Candid is a relatively new, rapidly growing company that offers teeth straightening with clear aligners. The company was founded by Lilla Cosgrove and Nick Greenfield to create a cheaper, more convenient alternative to traditional orthodontics. Candid works only with trained, licensed orthodontists to make sure patients receive the best possible care.

The clear aligners available from Candid are ideal for fixing a variety of moderate tooth spacing, crowding or rotation issues. This method is not recommended for people who have more severe orthodontic needs. Candid will determine if you are a good candidate for their alignment procedure before creating your aligners.

When you begin the process with Candid, the first step involves purchasing a kit that you will use to take impressions of your teeth at home. If you are a good candidate for treatment, Candid will make your clear aligners and ship them to you at home, along with a customized treatment plan. After you begin treatment, you will also participate in CandidMonitoring with an orthodontist. With CandidMonitoring tools and tech, you’ll share scans of your progress with your doctor every 10-14 days—the most oversight in the industry. And because your doctor sees your teeth so frequently, they may accelerate treatment time.

Online and In-Person Options

Candid started its business with several in-person retail locations. Today, however, the majority of its services are provided remotely. Patients take their own impressions at home prior to treatment, and all check-ins are completed online with video conferencing technology. Nonetheless, patients who live near one of Candid's studios can opt to begin their treatment completely free of charge by making an appointment.

The Procedure

Candid’s procedure begins when you order your at-home Candid Starter Kit. You will use this kit to take impressions of your teeth, which will then be sent back to Candid. Candid’s orthodontists will analyze the impressions of your teeth to understand your alignment needs. If they determine that you are a good candidate for invisible aligners, they will use 3D printing and other advanced technologies to create a set of customized clear aligners, which will fit tightly over your teeth and gradually shift them into place. Your aligners will be shipped directly to your door free of charge.

All patients will have their own unique treatment plan. The average length of treatment for Candid’s patients is only six months, which is shorter than the average treatment time for traditional braces. Candid’s clear aligners must be worn throughout the day but can be removed before you eat or drink.

Candid uses only trained orthodontists, as opposed to general dentists. While general dentists have only four years of training, orthodontists have seven years of training. Patients have access to ongoing support from these professionals throughout the treatment process. If you have any questions or concerns about your invisible aligners, you can check in with your orthodontist remotely for guidance or to see how your alignment is progressing. If you live close to a studio, you can also schedule an in-person appointment.

Pricing Structure

For a limited time, Candid is offering their starter kit for only $30, which is used to make the initial impressions of your teeth. If Candid determines that you are not a good candidate for treatment, you will receive a refund for the cost of your starter kit. If you are found to be a good candidate, you will have the option to purchase aligners and begin treatment.

The total cost of Candid’s aligners is $2,400 if you are able to pay the full cost upfront. Candid also offers payment plans to help make treatment more affordable for patients.These payment plans offer payments as low as $79 per month for 36 months with a $299 down payment.Candid also accepts FSA and HSA payments.

Insurance Coverage

Some dental insurance policies may cover the cost of your treatment with invisible aligners. Candid is also currently in-network with multiple insurance carriers including: Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Aetna. Even if your carrier is not currently partnered with Candid, their insurance team will file a claim on your behalf. Candid strongly recommends checking with your insurance company before you begin treatment if you are hoping to use your benefits.

Making an Appointment with Candid

If you are ready to get started with Candid, you can begin the process in two different ways. The most common method is completely free of charge by making an appointment at one of Candid's in-person studios. Candid currently has over 25 studios in several cities around the country, including Austin, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, Rockville, San Francisco and Washington, DC. If you visit one of these locations, staff members will examine your teeth in person to determine if you are a good candidate for treatment with invisible aligners. If you don’t live near one of their studios or wish to pursue treatment 100% remote, you can simply purchase a starter kit on their website and make impressions of your teeth at home.